Matt Lauer is 'reconnecting' with friends 7 years after controversial 'Today' exit, claims source

HAMPTONS: Matt Lauer, once the face of 'Today', is finding a new rhythm in life after his firing from NBC in 2017. Now 66, the former anchor has been focusing on his family, friendships, and personal happiness, though a return to journalism seems unlikely.

While Lauer was known for hard-hitting political interviews throughout his career, sources say he has no intention of returning to journalism, as reported by People.

Matt Lauer ‘reconnecting’ with friends after years of isolation following 'Today' exit

“There was a time he wasn’t really talking to anybody,” a close friend revealed. Over the past year, however, Lauer has started "reconnecting" with old friends through phone calls and texts. According to sources, he’s in “a really good place” with his three children—Jack, 23, Romy, 21, and Thijs, 17—and his ex-wife Annette Roque, from whom he divorced in 2019.

Lauer has embraced a quiet yet fulfilling life in the Hamptons. While he avoids the limelight, he maintains a circle of close friends, including some from his NBC days. “It’s not dull or boring,” another insider said, adding that Lauer spends quality time with his girlfriend, Shamin Abas, and his children.

“He doesn’t work, and he doesn’t have to,” one friend shared. Instead, he enjoys traveling with Abas to places like New Zealand, where he owns a home, and Florida, a state he’s hoping to visit more often.

Although Lauer’s career came to an abrupt end following allegations of sexual misconduct, including claims detailed in Ronan Farrow’s 2019 book 'Catch and Kill', he appears content with his current life. “He’s happy,” a source said. “He’s always exploring what’s next, but he and Shamin are living a good life together.”

The former anchor’s focus remains on family, private joy, and a slower pace—far removed from the bustling studios of his past.

Matt Lauer’s return to social life sparks debate

Matt Lauer’s return to social life has sparked a variety of reactions online, following his years of seclusion after his dismissal from 'Today' in 2017. As the former anchor reconnects with old friends and enjoys time with family, public opinion remains divided.

Some fans remember Lauer fondly, with one user sharing, “I absolutely adored him. I was so sad to learn of his behavior. I haven’t watched the Today Show since.”

Others reminisced about the 'Today' show’s past, writing, “The show was much better when he was on it!”

At the same time, many acknowledge Lauer’s financial security and new life away from the public eye. One user remarked, “He’s a millionaire so I’m sure he’s happy and relaxing.”

Meanwhile, another commented, “All I can say is I liked him in the mornings I thought he was great but I guess that didn’t pan out."

"He was great at first, his body language was different (action speak louder then words) I could tell something wasn't right with him hiding behind cameras," a user said.

In a more tongue-in-cheek response, a user quipped, “He could probably run for president, he has all the qualifications” adding a layer of irony given the scandal that led to his departure from 'Today'.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.